FREMONT, Ohio — The Fremont Federal Credit Union will soon move into a new headquarters in the eastern end of the city, replacing a long-vacant former Kroger building.
The credit union, which has served the community for nearly 80 years, plans to break ground soon and open the 27,000-square-foot facility by 2027 on South 5th Street, according to CEO Nick Cray.
“We’ve been part of Fremont now for 79 years,” Cray said. “Next year is our 80th anniversary. We have moved around to a couple different buildings here in town.”
The credit union’s current headquarters on Croghan Street has housed the organization for decades, but with steady growth, the leadership says it’s time for a larger space to accommodate future plans.
City officials welcomed the investment, calling it a win for the community.
“When a homegrown institution decides to make a huge investment like this back into your community, it’s a win for everybody,” said Bob Gross, Fremont’s economic development director.
The new headquarters is expected to reflect the organization’s long-term vision and commitment to service. According to Cray, credit unions are built on trust and personal relationships.
“What separates credit unions and Fremont in particular is that it’s very much a relationship business,” he said. “We take a great deal of pride in taking the long-term view and being focused on lifelong-type relationships.”
In addition to providing a modern facility for the credit union’s staff and customers, the project aligns with the city’s broader goals of revitalizing unused spaces.
“We truly are making plans to occupy as many empty buildings as we can,” Gross said. “We’re working to try to get those stores that residents want in their neighborhood and address those needs for our residents.”
Demolition of the existing structure is expected to begin soon, with construction on the new building to follow.